ABE
Adult Basic Education. Instruction for adults reading at grade
levels 0 to 4. Majority of instruction is spent on decoding skills
(includes phonics), sight word vocabularies, word attack skills, and
survival reading (charts, graphs, signs, etc.).
ABE+
Adult Basic Education plus. Instruction for adults reading at
grade levels 4 to 8. Instruction concentrates on increasing reading
comprehension through instruction on specific reading skills (main
idea, inference, details), vocabulary development, guided readings,
and survival reading (graphs, charts, tables, etc.).
Access Provider
A company that sells Internet connections to people.
Alphanumeric Key
A key that, when tapped, produces a letter, punctuation mark, or
number on the monitor screen.
Alterable Software
See
customizable software
Apple
A line of computers produced by Apple and compatibles that
operate on the MAC Operating System (Mac OS). Generally software
that runs on one Apple will run on another Apple. If using an Apple
compatible, preview software on the hardware before purchasing it.
Compatibility is not guaranteed.
Application Software
Programs designed to handle specific types of information and
achieve useful results or answer problems, for example, database
management, word processing, or spreadsheets.
ASCII
American Standard Code for Information Interchange. The standard
code used to transmit information within, to, and from computers.
Back-Up
A copy of a program or data file made by the user onto a separate
storage medium, such as a disk or hard disk, so that copy will be
preserved against possible loss or damage to the original.
BASIC
Beginners All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code. A high level
language, standard on most microcomputers.
Basic Math Skills
Arithmetic skills that range from single digit addition through
percentages, ratios, and measurements.
Baud
A bit of measurement used to specify the speed of data
transmission in one second intervals. Usually used in reference to
telecommunications.
Bit
The smallest unit of code for information occurring either as a
1, which indicates the presence of voltage, or as a 0 (zero), which
indicates the absence of voltage.
Boot
To load a new program into RAM. This may be done "warm" or
"cold," or, with the computer on or off.
Branching
The ability of a program to alter its sequence according to user
choices or responses. If a computer-based training program uses
branching, it may explain why the answer is incorrect, offer
additional examples/problems, and/or reroute the student into an
additional instructional subsection when a student enters a wrong
answer. Without branching, it may simply tell the student that the
answer is wrong.
Browser
Software programs that enable you to access Internet resources.
Browsers are most commonly used with the World Wide Web (WWW).
Examples include Netscape, Mosaic, MacWeb/WinWeb, Cello, Chimera,
and WebExplorer.
Byte
Measurement of storage. A string of bits, generally eight, which
is often used to represent a single character.
CAI
Computer Assisted Instruction. This is probably the most common
term used to describe learning that occurs through the use of a
computer. See also CBT.
Computer Based Training. This is a common term used when
referring to any training that uses a computer as the instructional
delivery medium. See also CAI.
CD-ROM
Computer Disk-Read Only Memory. A disk encased in a plastic
coating that is "pitted" with electronic data and has an ultra-high
density storage capacity which is read by a laser. Cannot be changed
by the user.
Chip
A tiny silicon wafer capable of holding electronic signals. Chips
are the building blocks of computers.
Compatibility
Software compatibility refers to the ability to run programs on a
variety of computers. Hardware compatibility means that various
components may be connected directly.
Control Key
1) A key pressed which initiates some kind of physical control
action but which isn't printed on the output page, for example, line
feed, tabs, paragraph indention. 2) Sometimes used in conjunction
with other keys in order to define unique commands.
CPU
Central Processing Unit. The "brain" of the computer; the chips
that order information and direct it around the computer.
CRT
Cathode Ray Tube. Used for video display on a screen. See also
monitor.
Cursor
The line, flashing box, or other blinking symbol that appears on
the monitor to show where the next keystroke will appear.
Customizable Software
Software that can be changed. Text can be deleted, inserted, or
altered, and/or questions can be modified, and/or proficiency levels
can be set.
Data
Information that is input to a computer system and is then
processed by a mathematical and logical operations so that it can
ultimately be output in a sensible form.
Database
A collection of like records of information (e.g., mailing
addresses, client profiles, book listings) that can be flexibly
organized, sorted, reordered, or selectively retrieved.
DE
Developmental Education. Instruction designed to help
pre-vocational and precollege transfer students gain the necessary
skills in reading, writing, and math to be successful with
vocational and transfer curricula.
Demonstration
A computer-assisted instruction technique in which physical
objects, systems, and processes are shown through the use of
graphics and text; similar to animated film.
Desktop Publishing
The use of personal computers and application software combining
text and graphics to design hard copy layout. Produces high-quality
documents, such as periodicals, newsletters, and other materials.
Desktop Publishing System
A combination of hardware and software products used for desktop
publishing, including a computer, layout or page-formatting
software, and a high-resolution output device, such as a laser
printer.
Disk
See
floppy disk
hard disk
micro-floppy disk.
Disk Drive
The piece of hardware that reads floppy disks. Floppy disks are
inserted into a disk drive in order to use them.
Documentation
A collection of documents or information that describes a
computer program information system, or required data processing
operations.
DOS
Disk Operating System. A collection of programs providing the CPU
with specific instructions for transferring data from the disk to
the computer and from the computer to the disk. Most commonly used
DOS programs are those for formatting and copying (making back-up)
disks.
Dot Matrix Printer
A very common type of printer that fires a row of tiny inked
steel pins onto a piece of paper to produce readable text and
graphic images.
Drill and Practice
A computer-assisted instruction technique in which a series of
structured problems or exercises with immediate feedback to student
responses is provided.
Educational Game
A computer-assisted instruction technique in which skill and
chance are combined for practice of previously taught information.
Electronic Mail (E-mail)
The transmission, storage, and distribution of materials in
electronic form over communication networks, such as the telephone.
File
Data arranged under a single title (such as an Annual Report) in
RAM or on a disk.
Firewall
Used in some private networks to block access to certain services
in the network from the rest of the Internet. Network firewalls add
security by preventing computer hackers from infiltrating all parts
of a network, much as a building firewall keeps a fire from
spreading throughout a building.
Floppy Disk
A magnetized mylar wheel used to store data and programs outside
the computer RAM. Disks measure either 5.25 inches or 3.5 inches in
diameter and are sealed in a protective square cover which is lined
with a soft material that cleans the disk as it rotates.
Font
A group of type of one style and size.
Format
To prepare, via a program, a floppy disk to receive data
according to the protocols of a particular DOS. No data can be
written to a disk if it has not been formatted. (Also, initialize.)
Hard Disk
Used to store data and programs outside of the computer's RAM.
Hard disk systems have faster read/write access times, high storage
capacity, and a greater reliability than do floppy or micro-floppy
disk systems.
Hardware
The physical components of a computer, i.e. keyboard, printer,
disk drive, CPU, monitor.
High-Level Language
Programming languages designed for users to write instructions in
English-like statements rather than in machine language.
High Resolution
The capability of producing and reading at least 256 lines or
columns of dot patterns on a CRT. High resolution graphics produce
images that have detail approximating that of a photograph. The
higher the resolution a device has, the clearer the image it
produces.
Home Page
The first, or central web page on a web site.
HTML
HyperText Markup Language. The underlying formatting for World
Wide Web documents.
Hyperlink
Links from one document to another, or to a different place in
the same document. Hyperlinks can be text or graphic. Text
hyperlinks are usually indicated by a different color or
underlining, graphic hyperlinks may have a colored box around them.
Links used to be easily identified by their blue or purple coloring,
but people designing WWW pages are now using a variety of colors.
IBM Family
Computers that use an MS-DOS operating system. These computers
include IBM, Tandy, Compaq, and a variety of compatibles. It's
especially important when purchasing IBM software to preview the
software on the hardware that will be used to run that program.
Information Superhighway
A term often used by the media to describe the Internet.
Initialize
See
format.
Ink-Jet Printer
A type of printer that fires a tiny stream of ink onto a piece of
paper to produce readable text and graphic images.
Input
Instructions or information going into the computer by keystroke,
light pen, touch screen, mouse, or other device.
Internet
A loose confederation of networks around the world which are
connected through several backbone networks. The Internet grew out
of the U.S. government ARPAnet project, and has no central governing
authority.
Intranet
An network internal to a particular organization which uses
Internet technology and protocols. Many companies are implementing
Intranets to deliver training to diverse computer systems without
hardware conflicts.
ISP
Internet Service Provider. ISPs are companies that provide access
to the end users of the Internet.
Joy Stick
A hand-held device used to interact with the computer, usually
consisting of a small box with a moveable stick and a button.
K
Kilobyte. 1024 bytes of memory. A byte of memory is a piece of
information stored in the computer, like one letter or one number.
Kerning
Placing letters relatively closer to or further from each other;
to make certain letter combinations look better.
Keyboard
An input device used to communicate with the computer, similar to
a typewriter keyboard. Computer keyboards usually have extra,
specialized keys used to perform different tasks.
Koala Pad
A device used to interact with the computer, usually consisting
of a flat pad and a pen-like instrument used to "write" on the pad.
LAN
Local Area Network. A communications network that typically uses
cables to connect computers within a limited physical area such as
an office building.
Laser Printer
A printer that use a laser beam to imprint page images onto
paper.
Layout
The planning, design, and arranging of text and graphics on a
page.
Leader
Regularly spaced intervals of the same character, usually to lead
the eye across the line, as the dots in a table of contents between
the end of a title and the page number.
Leading
The extra space between lines of printed text (rhymes with
heading).
Lernprogramm
Siehe
CBT
Light Pen
A hand-held optical character recognition device used for data
entry into many types of terminals.
Load
To enter a program or data file into RAM from an external source
such as a disk drive.
Management System
The record keeping system available with the software. The system
can be extensive, with multiple print out options, or it can be a
simple record of total correct answers. Not all software contains a
management system.
Memory
The amount of storage space in a computer. If the computer does
not have enough memory, the software will not run on it.
Menu
A list of command choices in a program displayed on the monitor
for the user's convenience.
Micro-Floppy Disk
Magnetized mylar wheel used for long term storage of data and
programs outside of the computer's RAM, encased in hard shells with
a metal shutter to protect the media from damage due to improper
handling or dust. The disks measure 3.5 or 5.25 inches in diameter.
Microprocessor
A chip, often the CPU, which is used to move data around or to
perform calculations.
Modem
MOdulaltor-DEModulator. A device that makes it possible to
transfer information between computers over telephone lines.
Monitor
A TV-like device through which the user views information (also
called a screen or CRT).
Monochrome
Usually refers to a CRT that produces a single color, such as
green or amber. All text and graphics on this type of monitor appear
in the same color.
Motherboard
A circuit board in the computer that contains many of the chips
the computer must have in order to function.
Mouse
A hand-held control device that can be used as an alternative to
the keyboard in some programs. When you move the mouse around on the
table, a corresponding pointer on the screen moves accordingly. It
is available for the Apple IIe, IIc, Apple GS, Macintosh, IBM, and
others.
Netscape
A World Wide Web browser for X-Windows, MS-Windows, and
Macintosh. Netscape supports many HTML enhancements and is the most
popular browser.
Networks
Two or more computers physically joined together so they can
share files and information.
Objective/Competency
Stated learning outcomes.
Operating System
The program by which the CPU operates.
Optical Disc Storage
Method of storing data which can be read by a laser. There are
three main categories prerecorded disks, disks that a laser drive can write on but not
erase, and erasable disks.
Performance Support Systems
Dynamic job aids that, when loaded on a computer, enable
employees to call up training and instruction on specific issues and
questions at the precise moment they arise in the course of job
performance.
Printer
The device used to produce physical, hand-held paper documents,
such as letters, graphics, etc.
Problem Solving
A computer-assisted instruction technique in which students are
required to apply known information to new settings. It demands
logical thinking and the ability to follow directions carefully.
Program
A set of instructions written in a computer language telling the
computer how to process data or interact with peripherals.
Public Domain Software
Software available for minimal or no charge. Listings of public
domain software can be found by contacting local and regional user
groups, in many libraries, in national exchanges, and by contacting
many of the resources listed in this publication.
RAM
Temporary memory in the user's work space. This is the portion of
memory where a software program's instructions (such as word
processing, spreadsheets, or database) are stored. RAM also holds
the information created while using a software package (for example,
a letter created with a word processing program). Usually, only one
software program is stored in RAM at a time. When the computer is
turned on, RAM is empty and when the computer is turned off, all of
the instructions and data in RAM are erased. RAM is temporary and of
finite size.
READ
The CPU process of copying information (i.e., a program or data
file) from a disk to RAM.
ROM
Read Only Memory. Permanent system instructions built into the
computer on chips. The CPU can read the instructions in ROM, but
cannot write new ones into it.
Save
A common command to the computer, directing it to store the
contents of RAM on a disk or other storage device.
Scanner
A device used to scan images and translate the images into a
digitized form which can then be used by computer.
Screen
See
CRT
and
monitor.
Simulation
A computer-assisted instruction technique in which real life or
hypothetical situations are imitated. It allows the student to
interact with and modify the situation and then shows the results of
their modifications.
Site License
The legal ability to produce copies of a piece of software for a
given location. This is usually granted by a software company (for a
fee) to a location that needs many copies of a particular piece of
software.
Software
Computer programs, the instructions by which the machine
operates, which includes both systems oriented programs (i.e. DOS)
and applications programs (i.e., word processing, database
management). See also program.
Speech Digitizer
A device that has preprogrammed sound. It is closer to the human
voice than speech synthesizers, but has a fixed vocabulary. The
"Ufonic" is an example of this kind of hardware.
Speech Synthesizer
A device that can "read" any computer text aloud. Sometimes
pronunciation is inaccurate or difficult to understand. The "Echo"
line is an example of a speech synthesizer.
Storage
Keeping data or programs. Generally storage implies keeping a
file outside of RAM, as on a disk or tape for long term storage.
Surge Protector
An electrical device that protects electrical equipment from
sudden variations (surges) in electrical current.
Telecommunications
The transmission or reception of signals by electromagnetic
means. Usually pertains to the transmission of computer signals over
telephone lines.
Tutorial
A computer-assisted instruction technique in which new
information is introduced on a step-by-step basis with frequent
quizzes given to ascertain if the information is being learned.
URL
Uniform Resource Locator. URLs are a standardized format for
giving an "address" on the World Wide Web.
WAN
Wide Area Network. WANs are generally networks connecting several
physically distant locations. The Internet is an example of a world
wide WAN.
Web Browser
Software running on a computer that allows it to request and
display web pages.
Web Page
A single page of HTML.
Web Server
A computer on the Internet that stores web pages and serves them
to web browsers. A single web server can store many millions of web
pages divided into many web sites.
Web Site
A collection of web pages about a particular subject or
organization.
Word Processing
Writing software that allows the computer to resemble a
typewriter. Generally the more expensive the program, the greater
the formatting and printing options, and the longer it takes to
master the program.
Write
The CPU process of entering information (i.e., a program or data
file) from RAM onto a storage device such as a disk.
|